The Importance of Language in Shaping Public Perception ft. Victoria Cruz (Cannabis is the scientific term for this medicine)

I met Victoria Cruz at the Boston Freedom Rally, where they spoke passionately on the Queer in Cannabis panel about the intersection of language, history, and cannabis culture. The use of “marijuana” in the United States government, research, and medical documents was not always so - in fact, Cannabis sativa was an official medicine in the US pharmacopeia and many pharmaceutical companies (some of which are still around today) created Cannabis products pre-prohibition. This blog post will look at the historical context of our use of the term “marijuana” in our official documents with an emphasis on where it is going now.

Victoria Cruz(They/them, She/Her) is a cannabis advocate, entrepreneur, and DJ hailing from Lorain/Amherst, OH. Their brand, Ultra Premium Gas, is reminiscent of cultures around the world that helped cannabis evolve into what it is today, with a little sazón added to the melting pot. Currently residing on the East Coast, through unique infused event experiences, music to match the vibe, and some Ultra Premium Gas, they are creating new spaces for conversation, community to match your light. ⛽️